Friday, August 31, 2012

Fresh off their sweep of the Astros (giving the Giants their largest divisional lead of the season (4.5 games)), the Giants now face another triple-A team in the Cubs. The Cubs are 50-80 this season and start Chris Volstad, who is an overpowering 1-9 / 6.28 ERA. The Giants counter with Ashley Madison (14-8, 2.93).

The Giants' remaining schedule includes these three against the Cubbies, then all NL West opponents: Snakes (9), Rockies (7), Padres (6), and Dodgers (6).

The Dodgers' more difficult remaining schedule includes the Giants (6), Padres (6), Snakes (5), and Rockies (3). But instead of extra series against the Snakes / Rockies / Cubbies, the Dodgers have the WC-contending Cardinals (4), the NL East-leading Nationals (3), and the NL Central-leading Reds (3). An uphill battle for the Dodgers, no doubt.